New Jersey teen struck by car driven by off-duty police officer

A 13-year-old girl is in stable condition at a local hospital after being hit by a car in Jersey City. The car was driven by a police officer who had just completed his shift, according to department officials. The officer responded quickly and called an ambulance and located the girl’s mother.

There is no information available about the girl’s injuries at this time, but observers at the scene said that there was some damage to the car and what appeared to be blood on the road. The girl was able to tell the officer where her mother lived before the ambulance came. There was also apparently a shoe near the accident scene that the girl had been wearing. Reports indicate that the girl was struck by the car when she darted out from between some parked vehicles and into the street.

Many people are injured in car accidents in New Jersey each year. Injuries from car accidents can be quite severe and result in significant medical bills, especially when a long hospital stay is required.

Police and emergency responders acted quickly after this accident and were able to contact the victim’s mother and bring her to the hospital quickly.

Even though the driver was a police officer, it is unlikely that the city will be liable for any damages from this accident. Since he was off-duty at the time and not driving a city owned car, the driver will likely be responsible for costs associated with the girl’s injuries.

The accident happened in the afternoon just after school had ended.

Source: New Jersey Star Ledger, “Officials confirm 13-year-old was struck by car driven by off-duty Jersey City cop,” Charles Hack, May 10, 2012.